Potential highwall use by raptors in coal mine reclamation
- Western Energy Co., Colstrip, MT (United States)
In 1982, Western Energy Company`s Rosebud Mine, located in southeastern Montana, received legal exception, {open_quotes}a first{close_quotes} in Montana to leave a standing mine highwall extending a native bluff. This bluff extension stands 110 feet high and 900 feet long. Normally, all highwalls by law are reduced to a 5:1 slope. This legal exception was accomplished with the support of several governmental agencies and was justified on the highwalls potential value for raptors. Enhancement measures undertaken on the highwall included the construction of three artificial eryies and the release of young prairie falcons (Falco mexicanus) employing hacking methods of the Peregrine Fund. The hack is now in its fourth year with a total of 46 young falcons having been released. Opportunities exist for creating a more diverse habitat for raptors and other cliff obligate species on reclaimed mine lands in the west. It is believed that this practical approach should be explored.
- OSTI ID:
- 56914
- Report Number(s):
- CONF-9003298-; TRN: 95:000425-0006
- Resource Relation:
- Conference: 5. Billings symposium on disturbed land rehabilitation, Billings, MT (United States), 25-30 Mar 1990; Other Information: PBD: 1990; Related Information: Is Part Of Fifth Billings symposium on disturbed land rehabilitation. Volume II: Hazardous waste management; wildlife; hydrology, drainages, erosion and wetlands; soils, minesoils and overburden; linear disturbances; oil and gas; PB: 397 p.
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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